Learn how to support each other emotionally and practically during a high-risk pregnancy.

Dr. Nikita Atreya

5/22/20242 min read

A person in medical scrubs, hairnet, and mask sits on a bench in a clinical setting, appearing contemplative or tired. The surroundings include a small refrigerator and a coffee maker, suggesting a break room in a healthcare environment.
A person in medical scrubs, hairnet, and mask sits on a bench in a clinical setting, appearing contemplative or tired. The surroundings include a small refrigerator and a coffee maker, suggesting a break room in a healthcare environment.

Expert tips on communication, mental health, nutrition, and physiotherapy for couples — from The Pillar.

High-risk pregnancy doesn’t just affect the mother — it affects the entire family.

Amid doctor visits, health concerns, and emotional turbulence, partners often find themselves juggling fear, responsibility, and helplessness.

But here’s the good news: you don’t have to go through it alone.
With the right understanding, communication, and support strategies, couples can grow closer and stronger — even in crisis.

What Makes a Pregnancy “High-Risk”?

A pregnancy is considered high-risk when the health of the mother or baby requires extra monitoring, care, or medical intervention. This could be due to:

  • Pre-existing medical conditions (diabetes, hypertension, autoimmune disorders)

  • Multiple gestation (twins/triplets)

  • History of miscarriage or preterm birth

  • Placenta previa or cervical insufficiency

  • Advanced maternal age

  • Fetal abnormalities diagnosed on scan

No matter the reason, the emotional and physical toll on both partners is real.

Why Partner Support Matters More Than Ever

  • 70% of women with high-risk pregnancies experience anxiety or depressive symptoms

  • Partners often feel helpless or shut out of the process

  • Emotional disconnect can silently build tension in the relationship

When support is intentional, couples report better mental health, bonding, and smoother postpartum transition.

Practical Ways to Support Each Other During High-Risk Pregnancy

1. Communicate Openly — Even When It’s Hard

  • Express fears instead of hiding them.

  • “I’m scared too, but I’m with you.” goes a long way.

  • Avoid dismissive reassurance like “Don’t worry” — instead say, “I hear you. Let’s face it together.”

  • Schedule a daily check-in ritual — even 10 minutes of “How are you feeling today?” builds emotional safety.

2. Divide Responsibilities With Compassion, Not Score-Keeping

One partner may carry more physical burden, the other more logistical or emotional burden. Both are valid.

  • Create a shared checklist — doctor visits, medications, nutrition plans, home tasks.

  • Use language like “How can I make things easier today?” instead of “Tell me what to do.”

3. Prioritize Mental & Emotional Health — for Both

High-risk pregnancies trigger medical trauma, anxiety, and fear of loss. Don’t wait for breakdowns.

  • Seek prenatal psychotherapy or couples counseling (The Pillar offers specialized programs for this).

  • Practice grounding techniques together — slow breathing, guided meditation, or even silent hand-holding.

4. Eat and Move Smart — Together

Nutrition and gentle movement can improve maternal and fetal health while reducing stress.

  • Support healthy meals, not perfection. “Can I make you something nourishing?” is an act of love.

  • Join physiotherapy-approved partner exercises — stretching, pelvic support, or breathing workouts can be bonding moments.

5. Plan for the “What-Ifs” Without Fear

Birth plans may change — and that’s okay.

  • Discuss NICU possibilities, emergency delivery options, or postpartum care.

  • Frame it as empowerment, not paranoia.
    “Let’s prepare, so we don’t panic.”


Remember: You’re Not Just Expecting a Baby — You’re Building a Partnership

High-risk pregnancy can either break communication or deepen connection.
The key lies in choosing empathy over assumptions, presence over perfection.

Need Structured Support?

At The Pillar, we offer specialized care for high-risk pregnancy couples through:

  • Prenatal Nutrition Plans (for diabetes, hypertension, autoimmune & more)

  • Psychotherapy & Trauma-Safe Counseling for Both Partners

  • Physiotherapy & Movement Therapy for Safe Mobility and Pain Relief

Ready to Strengthen Your Bond During This Journey?

Book a Consultation with Our Nutrition Team at The Pillar today and begin your healing journey.